THE economic forecast remains gloomy with young people particularly vulnerable.

Getting 18 to 24-year-olds into the workplace has to be a government priority.

After all, these are the people who will carry the country forward long after this recession has ended.

The government is paying £6m to create 960 jobs in local councils, charities and other organisations across Notts.

The jobs range from environmental work, gardening and horticulture to teaching assistants and trainee sound engineers.

The jobs are part-time, six-month placements offering skills and experience.

Every effort to get young people back into work deserves praise.

Without hands-on experience, they run the risk of joining the ranks of the long-term unemployed.

The simple experience of being in a work environment will help boost confidence, but they need a whole range of extra-curricular support too.

Basic computer, presentation and social skills will help secure a long-term career.

They need to know how to pen good CVs and perform well in interviews and over the phone.

Recession has the potential to scar the youngsters' lives. Employment offers financial security, social interaction, and, for many, a reason to get up.

This scheme is a fillip, coming as it does on top of the news that the city council is also creating 1,000 jobs this year.

It offers much, but the jobs themselves will still only pay the minimum wage.

The overall aim must be find people permanent, well-paid work as quickly as possible.